Basic orientations for the sustainability of European tourism, 2003

Communication from the Commission to the Council, the European Parliament, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions - Basic orientations for the sustainability of European tourism ( COM/2003/0716

[265 KB] ). (Slide presentation [777 KB] )

This document advocates the strengthening of sustainable tourism across the EU countries. Sustainability in tourism is intended as a concept of holiday's industry which gives full consideration to social issues, cultural integrity and environmental aspects.

With this aim, this communication recommends the development of consistent measures and policies involving tourism enterprises, tourist destinations and national and local authorities.

The communication highlights the following objectives:

• effective contribution from European and national policies in the sphere of tourism;
• active participation in global and international processes;
• application of the principles of good governance;
• helping stakeholders at all level to make tourism activities more sustainable

To stimulate efforts in this field, the commission establishes a Tourism Sustainability Group, in charge of setting out guidelines for the sector.